Dhaka: The Election Commission (EC) has officially published a gazette reserving 115 symbols for registered parties and independent candidates ahead of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad elections. This development marks a significant update in the parliamentary election rules.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the revised list of symbols, published in the gazette and signed by EC Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed, includes a wide array of symbols such as Apple, Pineapple, Mango, and Almirah, among others. The list also features unique symbols like a Rising Sun, Ektara, Scissors, and Pigeon, expanding the total number of symbols from 69 to 115.
In the current framework, 50 political parties are registered with the Election Commission. Additionally, there are 5 parties whose registrations have been either cancelled or postponed, yet symbols remain reserved for them. The increase in symbols accommodates not only the existing parties but also anticipates the registration of new political entities aiming to participate in the upcoming elections.